We’ve talked about prostitution-related charges on our blog in the past, and while we have some mixed feelings about the current laws and penalties pertaining to two consenting adults, the matter is completely different when it involves minors. Minnesota lawmakers agreed, having recently increased the penalties for prostitution-related crimes involving minors. We take a closer look at the changes in today’s blog.
Increased Penalties For Prostitution Involving Minors
Minnesota lawmakers recently passed a bill that increased the potential sentences for those found guilty of engaging in prostitution with individuals in certain age ranges. The change was made in part because as it stood, criminal sexual conduct had a higher penalty than prostitution of a minor. In other words, buying or selling a minor for sex was previously penalized lower than criminal sexual conduct. The new law increases the penalties for prostitution of a minor to the same level as criminal sexual conduct. Here’s a look at the changes.
- If the victim is under the age of 14, the potential penalty would be increased from 20 years to 30 years. It would also include the possibility of a fine up to $40,000, same as first-degree criminal sexual conduct.
- If the victim is between the ages of 14 and 16, the potential penalty would be increased from 10 years to 15 years. It would also include the possibility of a fine up to $30,000, same as third-degree criminal sexual conduct.
- If the victim is between the ages of 16 and 18, the potential penalty would be increased from five years to 10 years. It would also include the possibility of a fine up to $20,000, same as fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct.
The bill was signed into law earlier this year by Gov. Tim Walz, and the increased penalties officially went into effect on August 1, 2025. They will apply to any crimes committed after that date.
A prostitution charge can cause a whole bunch of problems in your life, so it’s best to avoid one. However, we’re here in the event you need legal help for prostitution charge or any other criminal matter in the Twin Cities. Let us be your resource during a confusing time. To talk with a professional about your case and learn more about your legal options, connect with Avery and the team at Appelman Law Firm. Give our team a call today at (952) 224-2277.
